Definition: And if a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex him.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Leviticus 19:33: “And if a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex him.” Essentially, it means: "Treat strangers with kindness and respect, even if they're visiting you for a short time." Here’s a more detailed explanation: “If a stranger sojourn with thee…” : This refers to someone who is visiting you – perhaps a traveler, a guest, or someone temporarily staying. “…ye shall not vex him.” : This is the key part. “Vex” means to irritate, disturb, or cause trouble. So, it means you don't want to upset or annoy them. What does this teach us? This verse is about hospitality and compassion. It’s a reminder of God’s love for all people, even those who are different from us. It emphasizes: Kindness: Treating others with respect and consideration is important, regardless of their background or where they come from. Gentleness: Avoiding causing them distress or trouble. Hospitality: Welcoming and offering comfort to visitors. Why is this a big deal in the Bible? This verse is often seen as a foundational principle for building a good community and reflecting God's love. It’s a call to be welcoming and considerate of those outside our immediate circle – a message that applies across time and cultures. Does it apply today? Absolutely! While we don’t necessarily need to have visitors, this verse encourages us to approach people with empathy and understanding, just like we would want to be treated kindly ourselves. It's about showing respect and valuing human life. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the historical context of this verse (if you’re interested)?